In Kenya, young creatives are increasingly using art, social media, and other talents to engage in conversations on democracy, social justice, and community issues. This shift challenges the perception that they remain on the sidelines of leadership and civic affairs. The Community Peace Museums Heritage Foundation has partnered with 15 young people to promote community dialogue, inclusivity, and social justice through art and media.
The initiative, known as the Fixing the Nation’s Democracy through Young Voices for Change project, aims to strengthen young people’s understanding of civic rights and responsibilities. Former Chief Justice Willy Mutunga, who was the chief guest at an engagement forum, applauded the young creatives for using their talents to keep the spirit of the Constitution alive. He encouraged them to move beyond expressing views online and take an active role in organised politics.
Mutunga challenged young people to identify political parties that align with their ideologies and seek elective positions to gain a direct role in decision-making. He also commended them for identifying tribalism as a major challenge to national cohesion and embracing a national identity. However, he cautioned them against alienating older generations, saying every generation has contributed to the country’s democratic journey.
Social media influencer and spoken-word artist Willie Oeba, one of the participants, urged young people to harness digital platforms to champion social justice. Oeba turned to art after a near-death experience, and he encourages fellow creatives to make better use of digital platforms. He believes that social media provides an opportunity for young people to influence public discourse while earning a living from their talents.
The Utu Project brings together young creatives to participate in community initiatives addressing issues including misinformation, political intolerance, and social justice. CPMHF Director Munuve Mutisya explained that the project is being implemented in partnership with Fredens Hus, a Swedish non-profit peace organisation. The project seeks to give young people tools to advocate for social change.
Mutisya challenged the participants to continue using their skills and talents to address issues affecting their communities. The project aims to strengthen young people’s understanding of civic rights and responsibilities, public participation, social justice, and democracy. By doing so, it empowers them to contribute to the country's democratic journey.
The young creatives' use of art and social media to advance democratic conversations is a significant development in Kenya's civic landscape. As they continue to harness digital platforms and engage in community initiatives, they are likely to play a more prominent role in shaping the country's future. Their efforts have the potential to promote social justice, inclusivity, and community dialogue.
Key points
- Young creatives in Kenya are using art and social media to engage in conversations on democracy and social justice.
- The Community Peace Museums Heritage Foundation has partnered with 15 young people to promote community dialogue, inclusivity, and social justice through art and media.
- Former Chief Justice Willy Mutunga encouraged young people to take an active role in organised politics and seek elective positions to gain a direct role in decision-making.
